beginner & wandering*

[jazzpiano]

Warning: I just listened to "Dimming of the Day" by R & L Thompson AND "Debris" by The Faces, so I'm feeling a little inspired, AKA "crazy". I don't know if I've ever taken a good pic in my life, can anyone recommend a good basic camera for a beginner ( I'd like to do b&w as well) AND a book to guide composition, etc.? ALSO, here's the crazy part: I like what I call "wandering" photos, ones that make you want to physically and mentally wander the landscape you're looking at (sorry, not ref'ng porn here). They are often ones that are very low-key, naturalistic, not particularly impressive subjects (maybe? - no offense), like the blue bucket in an expansive beach shot someone here took. I find these very therapeutic. Any thoughts?

Best,
Barry :mental: